The ocean has long been a source of joy, awe, and connection for countless people, yet it is a fragile force requiring steadfast champions. Few embody this role as profoundly as Cindy Zipf, Executive Director of Clean Ocean Action (COA). In a heartfelt interview with Sandra Levine on Still Time for Joy, Cindy shared her decades-long journey to protect and restore the ocean—a mission that has transformed not just the New Jersey coast but also her own life. Watch the full interview.
A Glimpse into the Past: A Polluted Ocean and a Community's Outrage
In the 1980s, the beaches of New Jersey and New York bore little resemblance to the pristine shores we cherish today. Hypodermic needles, tar balls, raw sewage, and debris were common sights, and marine life was suffering in silence. The ocean’s plight extended beyond ecology—beach closures devastated the local economy, leaving a profound void in a community dependent on tourism and coastal resources.
Against this backdrop, Cindy Zipf launched Clean Ocean Action in 1984, a grassroots coalition determined to end ocean dumping and restore the waters to health.
Building Coalitions: The Power of People
Cindy’s approach was visionary: she brought together diverse groups—fishermen, garden clubs, faith-based organizations, and Chambers of Commerce—united by a shared goal of defending the ocean. Her knack for coalition building became the cornerstone of COA’s success.
“When people became aware of what was happening, they galvanized,” Cindy explained. “The ocean doesn’t have a voice, but together, we became its voice.”
This collective determination of many true blue ocean stewards culminated in a monumental victory: by 2000, ocean dumping off the New Jersey coast had ended entirely—a first in over 100 years.
Transforming the Shore: Beach Sweeps and Policy Wins
One of COA’s most impactful initiatives is its Beach Sweeps program, launched in 1985. Initially, just 75 volunteers gathered at Sandy Hook to clean litter and document their findings. Today, the program has grown to 84 sites and thousands of volunteers, collecting data that drives legislation to reduce plastic pollution, ban single-use plastics, and eliminate harmful practices like balloon releases. If it wasn't for so many heroes of the sea stepping up COA would have never been able to make the impact it did.
The results are profound: in just 18 months after New Jersey’s “Get Past Plastic” law was enacted, plastic bag and foam container debris decreased by 30%.
Current Challenges: A New Wave of Industrialization
While COA has achieved remarkable victories, new challenges loom, including the rapid development of offshore wind energy projects. Cindy emphasized the need for careful, science-backed decision-making to ensure that renewable energy efforts do not harm marine life or disrupt critical migration corridors for fish, birds, and whales.
“Clean Ocean Action isn’t opposed to renewable energy,” Cindy clarified. “We’re opposed to the scale and speed without proper due diligence. The ocean isn’t a sacrifice zone—it’s a vital ecosystem.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
Cindy believes the ocean’s future depends on empowering youth. From leadership programs for high school students to family-friendly Beach Sweeps, COA strives to cultivate the next wave of environmental advocates.
“Teach a child to lead, and they can change the world,” Cindy said, reflecting her commitment to nurturing young leaders who will continue the fight for a clean ocean.
A Legacy of Hope and Joy
Cindy’s journey is a testament to the power of purpose-driven work. Despite challenges, she finds immense joy in witnessing the ocean’s recovery and the growing enthusiasm for marine life among coastal communities.
Reflecting on COA’s achievements, Cindy said, “The ocean has come back beautifully. Nature can heal if we give her the chance. It’s a joy to know that together, we’ve made a difference.” Her gratitude for the countless donors, sponsors, volunteers was evident.
Join the Movement
Cindy’s story is an inspiring reminder that individual and collective actions can create profound change. Whether through participating in Beach Sweeps, reducing personal plastic use, or supporting local environmental groups, everyone can contribute to protecting the ocean for future generations.
As Cindy puts it, “The environment is only as clean as the next generation will make it.” Let’s ensure they inherit an ocean as vibrant and full of life as it was meant to be!
Learn more about Clean Ocean Action and find out how you can get involved by visiting Clean Ocean Action.
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